Texas Defensive Star C.J. Gardner-Johnson Hospitalized Due to Leg Injury
C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the newly-acquired safety for the Houston Texans, suffered an injury to his right leg during practice on Thursday. Initial fears of a torn ACL have been alleviated, as subsequent MRI and further testing have confirmed that his ligament is intact [1][2][3].
Gardner-Johnson, aged 27, joined the Texans this season after being traded by the Philadelphia Eagles. In his last campaign with the Eagles, he recorded 59 tackles, one forced fumble, and six interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown, 69 yards [4][5].
The injury occurred while Gardner-Johnson was attempting to tackle wide receiver John Metchie III. Medical personnel assisted him on the field at the Texans' training camp site in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. An MRI will be conducted to determine the full extent of the injury [1].
With Gardner-Johnson's injury, safeties M.J. Stewart and Russ Yeast are expected to step in temporarily [2][5]. The Texans' secondary has already been affected by other injuries, making Gardner-Johnson’s return important for the defense [4]. If Gardner-Johnson misses any game time, the Texans also have versatile players like rookie cornerback Jaylin Smith and Pitre (who has safety experience) as options [5].
The Texans' first regular season game is against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 7. If Gardner-Johnson's recovery progresses as expected, he could be ready to play in this crucial opener [2][3][4][5].
In his 74-game career, Gardner-Johnson has 18 interceptions and 304 tackles [5]. He won Super Bowl LIX with the Philadelphia Eagles last season [6].
References:
- ESPN
- Pro Football Talk
- NFL.com
- Sports Illustrated
- Houston Chronicle
- Philadelphia Inquirer
- Despite the injury to his right leg, C.J. Gardner-Johnson's MRI and further testing revealed no torn ACL, offering hope for a potential quick recovery.
- The upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams, set for September 7, could potentially see Gardner-Johnson's return if his recovery progresses as expected.
- With Gardner-Johnson sidelined due to injury, teammates M.J. Stewart and Russ Yeast are expected to temporarily fill the void in the Texans' secondary.
- Despite the Texans' secondary facing multiple injuries, Gardner-Johnson's swift recovery could be crucial for the defense in the approaching NFL season.
- In his NFL career, spanning 74 games and including a win in Super Bowl LIX with the Philadelphia Eagles, Gardner-Johnson has amassed 18 interceptions and 304 tackles, showcasing his prowess in American football.
